decisive
UK[dɪˈsaɪsɪv]US[dɪˈsaɪsɪv]
adj
having the power or quality of deciding; putting an end to controversy; crucial or most important
adj
characterized by firmness and determination; resolute
Morpheme Breakdown
de
cis
ive
de
off, away
cis
cut
ive
adjective-forming suffix
Etymology
the word "decisive" originates from the medieval latin "decisivus," which itself derives from the past participle stem "decis-" of the latin verb "decidere," meaning "to decide, to determine." this verb is a compound of "de-" (off) and "caedere" (to cut). the literal sense is "to cut off," which evolved metaphorically to mean "to settle a question by cutting off debate or alternatives." the suffix "-ivus" (english "-ive") was added to form an adjective. thus, the etymological journey is from the physical act of cutting to the abstract concept of making a firm, conclusive judgment that puts an end to uncertainty, perfectly capturing the modern meanings of conclusiveness and resoluteness.
Analysis
Structure: de (off, away) + cis (cut) + ive (adjective-forming suffix)
- de: a latin prefix meaning "off, away, down, completely."
- cis: a latin root from the verb "caedere," meaning "to cut, to kill."
- ive: a latin suffix used to form adjectives meaning "having the nature or quality of."
Examples
the general made a decisive move that turned the tide of the battle.
her leadership was decisive in the company's successful turnaround.
the final round provided the decisive evidence needed to convict the suspect.